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Lebanon's president on Friday named ex-Public Works Minister Najib Mikati as prime minister.

Various anti-Syria opposition groups were meeting Friday morning and also named Mikati as their choice, Naharnet reported.

Mikati gained the largest number of votes. He told reporters afterward that he won the support of 58 lawmakers. The number of those who backed the other candidate, Defense Minister Abdul-Rahim Murad, was not disclosed.

"We will be the symbol of moderation and national unity," Mikati stated from the presidential palace after being appointed by the president. "I say it from here that the hand is extended and the heart is open so that we all cooperate in the Lebanese interest," he said.